FAQ Section

CAT 5e Cable in CAT 6 applications

[Q] Can I use CAT 5e Cable in applications that call for CAT 6 Cable?

[A]That will depend on the situation. An important determining
factor for your choice of cable will have to do with knowing
if the network has to be certified to meet certain performance
standards or not.

Cat
5e Cable was originally created to perform at 100 Megabits Per
Second, but was found later to be able to perform at gigabit
speeds, given that all the other equipment in the network would
also handle the workload. CAT 6 Cable was specifically
designed for use in gigabit network arrangements, and can actually
be certified for this purpose. If you are setting up a network,
and you are able to make decisions on your own about how things
will be done, it is different than when you are being required
to meet certain standards.

In
short, although CAT 5e is not actually designed for this purpose,
you can support many gigabit applications using a high-quality,
solid core product. It has been proven not only on the bench,
but in many network environments around the world.

The
fact that CAT 5e Cable is able to perform in this manner
provides a great deal of flexibility in the construction of
the network, and will also allow for substantial savings in materials.

It is important to remember that if the design of the network specifically calls for Gigabit Ethernet, then you will be compelled to use CAT 6 Cable. The fact that CAT 5E Cable can deliver the performance you need will not change the inability to certify it for that purpose. Make sure to consult with a trained professional if you have questions about which cable will be right for you.

Just
remember, your network will operate at the speed of your slowest
device.

CAT
5 Cable Company provides CAT 5 and CAT 5e patch and crossover cables for all networking applications in
9 colors, and any custom length. Hand assembled and 100% tested
to ensure the finest quality.